Sean Mychaels recently released his poignant single 'This Life'. Here, in our excusive interview, the talented songwriter tells all on the track's formation.
What inspired the song "This Life," and what does the title mean to you personally?
This Life” came from a very personal place. I wrote it after losing my father following his long battle with leukaemia, and that experience really changed the way I look at things. Watching someone you love go through that makes you reflect on life in a much deeper way. The song is partly about that loss, but it’s also about perspective. There’s a line of thought behind it where I almost wish I could go back and warn my younger self that life can be pretty brutal at times. You grow up thinking things will make sense or get easier, but sometimes they just don’t. The title “This Life” is about accepting that reality, the good, the painful, the unexpected and recognising that all of it shapes who we become. It’s a reflection on living through those moments and finding meaning in them.
How does "This Life" reflect where you are right now?
Right now it reflects a place of perspective for me. Losing my dad after his long battle with leukaemia really changed how I see life and what matters. The song captures that feeling of understanding that life can be brutal at times, but also learning to accept it and keep moving forward. It’s probably the most honest reflection of where my head and heart are right now.
What was the recording process like for "This Life"? Did it come together quickly, or was it a longer journey in the studio?
The song was originally completely different and had a different verse and chorus, only the pre chorus part stayed the same. It all came together quite quickly in terms of recording as I had it all finished in the space of a couple of days… which is unusual for me! Haha
Your music often draws from real-life experiences, grit, and family. How much of "This Life" is autobiographical versus storytelling?
“This Life” is very much autobiographical. Losing my dad and reflecting on life’s hardships shaped the song’s core. That said, I also try to write in a way that connects with others — so while the emotions and experiences are real, the way they’re expressed has elements of storytelling to make it relatable. It’s a mix, but at its heart, it’s genuinely about my own life.
You’re known for blending alt-rock with traditional rock-leaning edges and emotional depth. How does "This Life" fit into (or push) that sound?
Yeah it leans on the heavier side of what I usually do. I’m always holding an acoustic on stage, but this one felt right as it is with guitars, energy, and all. It still has the alt-rock vibe I love, but with a raw, personal edge that really matches the song’s emotional core.
Who were the key collaborators on this release (producers, co-writers, musicians), and what did they bring to the table?
It was really a solo effort. I wrote, played, and produced and mixed it in my home studio. Doing it all myself meant I could keep the song raw and personal, making sure every note and layer reflected exactly what I wanted to say. It’s as close to my own voice as I could get.
Family seems central to your life and music. How has being a dad and partner influenced the themes in "This Life" and your recent work?
Being a dad and partner has made me more aware of what truly matters. “This Life” reflects that we need to appreciate moments, face the fact that loss exists, and find strength in family. It’s what keeps my music grounded and honest.
What message do you hope listeners take away from "This Life," especially if they’re navigating their own winding paths?
I hope it reminds people that life is messy and unpredictable, but that’s okay. There’s strength in facing loss, appreciating the small moments, and keeping going even when things feel brutal. Ultimately, it’s about finding resilience and meaning in your own journey.
Are there any other tracks on the horizon that continue the emotional thread started in "This Life"?
Yes, absolutely! There’s more music coming that explores different parts of my life, from being a dad to navigating life’s struggles, like finances and day-to-day challenges. It continues that honest, personal thread while showing the full picture of life’s ups and downs.
You’ve built a following with songs like “Ashes,” and “Where Did It All Go Wrong.” How does "This Life" feel like a next step or evolution for you?
For me, “This Life” tied all my previous tracks together, they explore the same themes from different angles, but this one felt like a new step. I found a slightly edgier production style that pushed my sound forward, and I’m really grateful to my fans for their support early on, they’ve made this journey possible.
What’s been the most surprising or rewarding part of releasing music independently as an emerging artist?
I think every artist is always slightly hesitant to release music, especially at the beginning! But I’ve found the support online to be honestly overwhelming and I can’t thank my fans enough for being apart of this journey with me so early on.
Looking ahead, what’s next for you—more singles, an EP/album, or something else on the horizon?
I’m working on my debut album, Broken In Motion, which will be released later this year. Before it drops, I’ll be sharing more singles that explore different parts of life, being a dad, facing struggles, and reflecting on personal growth.
'This Life' is out now and you can stream the track below.
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